掩耳盗铃

yǎn ěr dào líng◆idiom
self-deception

他试图掩耳盗铃，以为别人不会发现他的错误。

He tried to deceive himself, thinking others wouldn't notice his mistake.

◆ What It Really Means
to deceive oneself by ignoring the obvious truth
Literal Meaning
to cover one's ears while stealing a bell
Literal Breakdown
掩耳cover one's ears+盗铃steal a bell
◇ Mental Image
A mental picture of someone stealing a bell while covering their ears, believing the noise won't be heard by others or themselves.
◈ When to Use
Used when someone avoids acknowledging a problem or mistake to protect their ego, often in personal, social, or professional contexts.
◉ Cultural Note
Roots in ancient Chinese philosophy emphasizing self-awareness and honesty. Reflects Confucian ideals of moral integrity and the dangers of self-deception.
literary

to deceive oneself by ignoring the obvious truth

有些人明知自己有问题还掩耳盗铃，不愿面对现实。

Some people know they have problems but deceive themselves, unwilling to face reality.

Often used to criticize someone who avoids acknowledging a clear issue to protect their pride or avoid responsibility.

Related Phrases

自欺欺人idiom
deceive oneself and others
掩目捕雀idiom
cover one's eyes to catch a sparrow (another idiom about self-deception)

Pro Tip

Idiom vs. Literal Meaning

This idiom is purely figurative—never use it to describe someone literally covering their ears or stealing a bell. Focus on the act of ignoring the obvious to avoid responsibility.

Word Origin

Originates from the Warring States period story of a man who stole a bell and plugged his ears, thinking others wouldn't hear the noise. First recorded in '吕氏春秋·自知'.

Usage Notes

Commonly used in both spoken and written Chinese to describe deliberate self-deception. Often appears in moral or critical contexts.

Word Breakdown

掩
cover
root
+
耳
ears
root
+
盗
steal
root
+
铃
bell
root
汉英词典